The Announcement

As Esme approached Lennox, who was dressed in the ceremonial white attire befitting a king, he offered his gloved hand to Esme, and she took it. Together, the two of them made their way to the altar.

Lennox lifted the golden goblet Leonardo had handed him, the spoon's gentle clink against the glass capturing the attention of the entire assembly.

Esme's eyes dropped to the floor, her face growing warm as the room's focus shifted to them. The stillness in the air was thick, but Lennox's voice resonated through the silence.